Ingratiating
mediumNegative tonein-GRAY-shee-ay-ting
adjective
Definition
Intended to gain approval or favor; sycophantic
Memory hook
IN-GRATI-ATING: worming INTO someone's GRACES — deliberately charming to gain favor.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“His ingratiating smile failed to win over the skeptical audience.”
“She found his ingratiating manner insincere.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His ______ smile failed to win over the skeptical audience.”
Show answer
ingratiating
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Ingratiating is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "sycophantic" or "fawning" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "alienating".
Related GRE Words
servile
Having or showing an excessive willingness to serve or please others
fawning
Displaying exaggerated flattery or affection; obsequious
unctuous
Excessively flattering or ingratiating; oily
adulatory
Excessively praising or admiring; fawning
obsequious
Obedient or attentive to an excessive or servile degree
deferential
Showing respect and courteous regard for another's wishes
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